Parasite causing diarrhea spreads in U.S. as officials investigate outbreak

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a rise in cyclosporiasis cases, a parasitic illness characterized by watery diarrhea. The investigation comes as summer travel and outdoor activities increase, potentially contributing to the spread.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating as a parasite that causes watery diarrhea appears to be spreading just as summer hits its stride.

As of July 1, the CDC had identified 145 cases acquired across 17 states between May 1 and June 16. Twenty individuals required hospitalization. The affected population spans a wide age range, from five to 86 years old. Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services is also actively investigating a "large and growing outbreak," reporting over 170 cases in several counties in just nine days – a significant jump from the roughly 50 cases typically seen annually in the state.

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As of Tuesday, June 30, more than 170 cases have been reported in Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Livingston, Shiawassee and Jackson counties in the past nine days. Typically, Michigan only identifies around 50 cyclosporiasis cases per year.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora and is primarily spread through consuming contaminated food or water. The parasite can enter water sources from infected feces, subsequently contaminating crops when used for irrigation. Contamination can also occur during food processing or packaging, or through infected food handlers who neglect proper sanitation practices like handwashing. Symptoms, which can appear seven to 14 days after exposure, include watery diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, weight loss, mild fever, and nausea. While medication can improve symptoms within days, full recovery may take several weeks. The CDC considers May 1 to August 31 to be the typical cyclosporiasis season.

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The cyclospora parasite gets in sources of water when feces from infected people enter the water supply. Food can then become contaminated when this water is used on crops and in food processing and packaging.